A £1m scheme to restore one of Whitby’s most recognisable buildings and bring it back into public use is due to begin next month, led by Align Property Partners, the North Yorkshire Council’s multi-disciplinary building design consultancy.
The managing director of Align, Ron Walton, said: “Our building design team of architects and engineers have worked closely with the council to ensure this important building is restored in the best way possible.
“We are all looking forward to seeing the project come to life and work to be completed – to the benefit of everyone who lives, works in and visits Whitby.”
The Old Town Hall building has been one of the town’s most famous heritage assets and a focal point for residents, visitors and traders since the 18th century.
An outdoor market is currently held in the under croft of the building and Market Place – but the Grade II* listed premises is in a poor state of repair and the first floor has been unoccupied since 2017.
The renovation will allow the building to be used as a public space for community, heritage and cultural activities all year round.
Executive member for open to business, Cllr Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include economic development and regeneration, said: “The Old Town Hall is a crucial part of Whitby’s rich history and heritage.
“Through this scheme we hope to restore, renovate and repurpose the building so it can be a thriving community anchor for local residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy and use.
“Whitby is a place held in the hearts of so many people and we hope the project can help create and maintain a vibrant and bustling year-round market place, increasing crucial footfall into the town and providing a welcome boost to the local economy.”
